Preventing Water Emergencies: Tips For Avoiding Frozen Pipes

Tips for Avoiding Frozen Pipes

Winter has arrived and with it comes frigid temperatures and the potential for frozen pipes. When temperatures drop, water within pipes can freeze, causing them to expand and potentially burst, leading to costly damages. However, with a proactive approach and some practical tips, you can safeguard your Tulsa home or business against the inconvenience and expense of frozen pipes. 

Insulate Your Pipes

One of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate them. Pipes located in unheated or poorly insulated areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics, are particularly vulnerable. By adding foam or fiberglass pipe insulation, you create a barrier that helps maintain a stable temperature and prevents heat loss. Focus on areas where pipes are exposed to cold air, and pay special attention to corners and bends. 

Maintain Adequate and Consistent Temperature

Another way to prevent frozen pipes is to ensure that your home is adequately heated and keep your thermostat set at a consistent temperature day and night. Avoid setting the thermostat too low, especially during extremely cold spells. If you’re away for an extended period, keep the heating system running at minimum temperature to prevent pipes from freezing. 

Open Your Faucets Slightly

On particularly cold nights, or when going to be away from home for an extended time, allowing faucets to drip can be an effective strategy for preventing frozen pipes. The constant flow of water, even at a slow rate, helps prevent water from sitting still in the pipes, reducing the likelihood of freezing. While this may slightly increase your water usage, it’s a small price to pay compared to the potential cost of damage from a broken pipe.

Drain Your Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems

If you have outdoor faucets or irrigation systems, be sure to drain them before the winter weather arrives. Water left in these systems can freeze and expand, causing damage to both the fixtures and the connected pipes. Shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain any remaining water to prevent freezing. 

Open Cabinet Doors

In colder areas of your home, such as under sinks, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes. This is particularly important for pipes located along exterior walls. By promoting better air circulation, you help maintain a more consistent temperature and reduce the risk of freezing. 

Take Immediate Action to Thaw Frozen Pipes

It’s a good idea to check your pipes regularly for signs of freezing. If you see any ice or frost on your pipes, take action immediately to thaw them. If you find that your pipes have frozen, act quickly to thaw them before they burst. According to The American Red Cross, you can use a hair dryer, a space heater (keep away from flammable materials), an electric heating pad, or wrap the pipes in towels soaked in warm water. Open the faucet slightly to allow running water to pass through the pipe and help to melt ice. If you need additional help, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber to assist you before damage is done to your home or business. 

By taking these proactive measures, you can protect your Tulsa home from the potential hazards and costly repairs associated with frozen and burst pipes. 

Water Damage Restoration

If your property has been affected by water damage, you can count on Decor for fast, reliable service to clean up water, dry your property, and completely restore your home or business to its pre-loss condition. Our certified and experienced water damage teams are available to provide Emergency Service 24/7. If you need help with insurance, we also offer Insurance Claim Support. A prompt response can significantly reduce your damages and reduce the disruption time to your home or business. Call Decor today for professional water damage cleanup and restoration. We’re here to help!